US printing-writing paper inventory levels in May 2022 increased one percent

Photo: Newone/Wikimedia Commons

The American Forest & Paper Association (AF&PA) recently published its May 2022 Printing-Writing Monthly report. According to the report, total printing-writing paper shipments increased two percent in May compared to May 2021.

U.S. purchases of total printing-writing papers increased three percent in May compared to the same month last year.

Total printing-writing paper inventory levels increased one percent when compared to April 2022.

  • Uncoated free sheet (UFS) paper shipments increased two percent compared to May 2021 while the inventory level remained essentially flat (+0.3 percent) compared to April 2022. UFS imports and exports both decreased compared to April 2021, down three percent and 29 percent respectively.
  • U.S. purchases of coated free sheet (CFS) papers in May increased two percent compared to last May while the inventory level increased two percent compared to April 2022. CFS imports and exports both decreased compared to April 2021, down six percent and five percent respectively.
  • Coated mechanical (CM) paper shipments decreased 11 percent compared to May 2021 while the inventory level decreased five percent compared to April 2022. CM imports increased one percent while exports decreased five percent in April 2022.
  • U.S. purchases of uncoated mechanical (UM) papers in May increased four percent compared to last May while the inventory level increased two percent compared to April 2022. UM imports increased five percent while exports decreased 15 percent in April 2022.

The American Forest & Paper Association (AF&PA) serves to advance U.S. paper and wood products manufacturers through fact-based public policy and marketplace advocacy.